We're helping you get to know some of the biggest disruptors in London food and drink, from the rogue chefs and the tastemakers to the trendsetters and the hospitality history redefiners. Up there as one of the greatest chefs on the London scene right now, we talk to Santiago Lastra from Michelin-starred KOL about the negronis he's drinking after work, and what place British cuisine and produce has on his Mexican restaurant.

Photo: Santiago Lastra

Tell us who you are and what you do.

My name is Santiago Lastra, I’m a Mexican chef and I have a restaurant called KOL in the centre of London. I was born in Mexico City and grew up in Cuernavaca, aspiring initially to be a mathematician due to my love for research and problem-solving. This curiosity eventually led me into the kitchen. My culinary journey began at 15, working in a local Italian restaurant, sparking a passion that prompted me to pursue this path further.
 
Tell us more about KOL, and why people should visit.

KOL is a fine dining restaurant that aims to highlight Mexican culture as a meaning of quality while focusing on the best British ingredients available. Being originally from Mexico, I wanted to share my love of Mexican food with others and have poured my passion into creating innovative menus that pay homage to Mexico’s rich cultural tastes, aromas, and textures, all while embracing meticulously sourced seasonal British produce.

We aim to showcase a contrast of elegance and balance, offering guests a unique interpretation of Britain through a Mexican lens. Since we opened in 2020, we’re thankful to be recognised with a Michelin star and to hold the 17th position in the World's 50 Best Restaurants, among other awards. These are staples of the hard work of our team, and proof that Mexican culture and British ingredients have everything to be of the world’s highest class. 
 
If you’re heading anywhere after a shift at KOL, where are you going and why?

I think I would go to Chiltern Firehouse, listen to music, and have a few Negronis with friends. I love the place's vintage feel and the fact that it is full of people truly having a great time. Sit at a table next to the fire, order cocktails, and just relax.

If I want to grab a quick bite in the evenings in London, one of the best places for pizza is the Connaught Bar. I usually order the margarita pizza and a martini with the Ago Drago bitters. It's the perfect after-shift meal. I also love Bar With Shapes For A Name, they open until late and the drinks are absolutely amazing.

For more casual food you can always go to Chinatown and have some dumplings or close to KOL to Edgware Road to have some great Lebanese food, if you are lucky enough not to finish service to late a late table at st John is also something I love as a treat with friends.

Exceptional Mexican dining in London.
What are your thoughts on the London restaurant scene at the moment and how KOL fits in?

I think London right now is one of the most exciting food destinations in the world because people are very open-minded and open to new flavours and new cultures but also because it is a very competitive city, so that means that the standards of high-quality foods get better and better every time. I couldn't dream of living in a more exciting city and it’s great for KOL to be part of this movement of a new generation of chefs, bringing high-quality cuisine from everywhere to this capital of the world.
 
What does London’s restaurant scene have above other cities in the world?

London's restaurant scene stands out due to its incredible diversity and constant innovation. This city is a melting pot of cultures, which is vividly reflected in its culinary offerings. From traditional British fare to the most avant-garde and global cuisines, London offers an unparalleled range of dining experiences. Additionally, the city's emphasis on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients has grown significantly, which aligns with modern culinary values and practices. This dynamic combination of diversity, innovation, and sustainability makes London's restaurant scene truly unique compared to other cities around the world.

And in terms of Mexican food I think is the time for it in London and the world, there has never been a better time for Mexican food and culture to shine and we want to contribute as much as we can.

For more great restaurants in London, check out our guide.